What are the effects of household cleaning products on the hands?

The skin of the hands depends largely on the integrity of its most superficial layer, the stratum corneum, which provides both a physical and biochemical barrier function. This structure is made up of corneocytes, meaning dead cells, organized within a lipid matrix rich in ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. This arrangement helps limit water loss and protects the skin from external aggressions. In addition, there is the hydrolipidic film on the surface of the epidermis, a protective layer composed of sweat and sebum. However, many household products are formulated to dissolve fats and dirt, a mechanism that does not distinguish between the surface lipids of the skin and those present in the domestic environment.

Repeated exposure to these products, particularly those rich in surfactant detergents such as dishwashing liquids, leads to a gradual decrease in skin lipids.

A study conducted in 11 volunteers showed that the use of diluted detergents (0.5%) was associated with a decrease in the skin’s lipid content, with a negative correlation (r = –0.53). As a reminder, the correlation coefficient (r) measures the strength of the relationship between two variables. It ranges from –1 to +1. The closer its value is to ±1, the stronger the relationship. This loss of lipids weakens the skin barrier, increases transepidermal water loss, and promotes the onset of dryness and discomfort.

When this barrier is weakened, the skin becomes more permeable to irritating substances, which can lead to irritant contact dermatitis. Unlike an allergic reaction, this type of dermatitis results from a direct assault on the skin. It presents with redness, burning or stinging sensations, scaling, and sometimes painful cracks, particularly around the finger joints. So‑called “wet work,” such as dishwashing or cleaning, worsens these symptoms: water causes the stratum corneum to swell, increasing its permeability and facilitating the penetration of surfactants and other chemical agents.

In some cases, an allergic contact dermatitis can also occur. This involves an immune system reaction to a specific ingredient, such as certain fragrances, preservatives, especially isothiazolinones, or disinfecting agents. Once sensitization has developed, even minimal exposure can trigger an inflammatory reaction, with eczematous lesions. Unlike irritant dermatitis, this type of reaction requires strict avoidance of the allergen over the long term.

Beyond these visible reactions, household products can also disrupt the balance of the skin microbiome. The skin indeed hosts beneficial microorganisms that contribute to its defense by occupying ecological niches and producing antimicrobial substances. Repeated use of detergent or disinfectant products can unbalance this flora, reducing its ability to protect the skin and indirectly promoting the onset of irritation or infections.

Over the longer term, these repeated aggressions contribute to the premature aging of the skin on the hands. Chronic dehydration and low-grade inflammation progressively alter the skin structure, making it thinner, rougher, and less supple. Fine lines may appear, giving the hands a more pronounced, marked appearance, sometimes further accentuated when these exposures are combined with other factors, such as sun. These effects are even more pronounced in situations of frequent exposure, such as certain occupational activities, but they also occur in everyday domestic use.

A scientific review also highlights that detergents and cleaning agents are among the main causes of hand dermatitis.

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